How to Contact Credit Agencies When Credit Card Is Stolen

If you have lost a credit card or noticed that one has been stolen, take action immediately. The three credit reporting agencies--TransUnion, Experian and Equifax--should be contacted after you notify your credit card company. The credit reporting agencies can assist you in putting a freeze or fraud alert on your credit file. This will keep anyone from opening up new lines of credit in your name, which can be helpful in preventing identity theft. Typically, once one agency places an alert the other two will do the same, but contact all three just to be safe.

Things You'll Need

• Letter with stamped envelope or phone

Instructions

1. Call TransUnion's Fraud Victim Assistance department at [phone]. Alternatively, you can send a letter asking for a fraud alert on your credit file to:

   P.O. Box 6790
   Fullerton, CA 92634

2. Contact Equifax to place a fraud alert by phone at [phone]. The request can also be mailed to:

   P.O. Box 740256
   Atlanta, GA 30374-0241

3. Place a fraud alert with Experian by calling [phone]. Submit your request in writing to:

   P.O. Box 9532
   Allen, TX 75013

Tips & Warnings

• Remember to contact your credit card company first.

• For a serious case of identity theft, contact your local police to file a report.

References

• Truecredit: How to Report Credit Fraud, Credit Fraud Alert, Credit Bureaus

Resources

• PC Today: Lost or Stolen Credit Cards?